Students of Delhi University’s School of Open Learning have expressed concern over the decision to approve “proposed diversion of funds for creating regional study centres in the constituent colleges of the university”. Even members of the DU SOL Students’ Union have not welcomed the plan to give head of such centers Rs. 25,000 monthly out from student’s money. Md Shahnawaz of Krantikari Yuva Sangathan stated that the primary problem is that SOL is not getting UGC grants and is a self-financing institution. UGC must pay the staff as this affect students belonging from marginalized and economically weaker sections being further marginalized. Shahnawaz added that UGC should provide funds for construction and students’ money should be used to provide them necessary provisions.
Students feel that the disparity between correspondence and regular courses has been increasing and they would raise the concern if the immediate measures are not taken. The staff association is planning a meeting with higher authorities about diverting Rs. 22 lakh to colleges to establish 50 study centers.
